Gary Smith’s Record 48-Loss Season Still Stands Tall In NHL History

On April 3, 1971, Gary “Suitcase” Smith set a mark in NHL history that has never been matched. Playing for the struggling California Golden Seals, Smith suffered his 48th loss of the season, cementing a record that still stands more than five decades later.

The 1970-71 Golden Seals won just 20 games and finished at the bottom of the standings, ten points behind the next-worst team. Smith, however, was the backbone of the club, appearing in 71 of 78 games. He led the league in games played, minutes played, shots faced, saves, goals against and, unfortunately, losses. Without him, the Seals may have fared even worse.

The record-setting defeat came in the season finale against the Los Angeles Kings at the Forum. California stormed out to a 3-0 lead just 6:53 into the game, and still held a 4-3 advantage entering the third period. But goals from Bob Pulford, Ralph Backstrom, and Eddie Joyal gave the Kings a 6-4 comeback win. 

Smith was bombarded with 52 shots, making 46 saves, but it wasn’t enough. His 48th loss surpassed Al Rollins’ 47 with Chicago in 1953-54. Only Peter Sidorkiewicz, with 46 losses for Ottawa in 1992-93, has come close since.

It was also Smith’s last game as a Seal. That offseason, he was traded to the Chicago Blackhawks in exchange for Kerry Bond, Gerry Desjardins, and Gerry Pinder. In Chicago, his fortunes improved dramatically. Working behind Tony Esposito, Smith posted a 2.42 GAA and five shutouts in 28 games. The tandem went on to share the Vezina Trophy for their efforts.

About Gary Smith

Between 1965-66 and 1979-80, Gary Smith appeared in 532 regular season and 20 playoff games in the National Hockey League with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Oakland Seals, Chicago Blackhawks, Vancouver Canucks, Minnesota North Stars, Washington Capitals and Winnipeg Jets.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Gary Smith

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Gary “Suitcase” Smith set an NHL record in 1970-71 with how many losses in a single season?
   44
   46
   48
   50
2. Which team did Smith play for when he recorded his 48-loss season?
   Chicago Blackhawks
   California Golden Seals
   Toronto Maple Leafs
   Vancouver Canucks
3. Smith earned the nickname “Suitcase” because of what?
   His oversized goalie gear
   He was often traded and moved between teams
   His habit of carrying lucky charms in a suitcase
   He traveled with the team’s equipment manager
4. After leaving the Seals, Smith joined the Chicago Blackhawks and shared which trophy with Tony Esposito?
   Hart Trophy
   Vezina Trophy
   Jennings Trophy
   Calder Trophy
5. Smith later starred for the Vancouver Canucks and helped lead them to which milestone in 1975?
   Their first playoff series win
   Their first division title
   Their first 100-point season
   Their first Stanley Cup Final

Bryan Trottier’s Historic 8-Point Night Against Rangers in 1978

The New York Islanders were already a powerhouse in the 1978-79 season, dropping only four games by the time they hosted the rival New York Rangers on December 23, 1978. On that night, Bryan Trottier gave Islanders fans an unforgettable early Christmas gift with one of the greatest single-game performances in franchise and NHL history.

Trottier recorded eight points on five goals and three assists, breaking his own Islanders record of five points in a game, set just a year earlier in 1977. His six points in the second period alone still stand as an NHL record for most points in a single period, later tied by Mika Zibanejad of the Rangers decades later.

The scoring started modestly, with Trottier netting one in the first period before the game stood tied 1-1. Then came the Islanders’ second-period explosion. New York’s goalie Wayne Thomas was overwhelmed as Trottier scored three goals in the frame and set up Mike Bossy twice and Garry Howatt once. By the end of the period, the Isles had buried seven goals, with Trottier firmly in the spotlight.

Trottier capped off his incredible night with his fifth goal early in the third period. While the Rangers clawed back with a pair of late goals, the Islanders skated off with a 9-4 victory. Bossy chipped in five points of his own, and Garry Howatt completed the Gordie Howe Hat Trick with a goal, an assist, and a third-period fight. For the Rangers, Ron Greschner did his best to keep things respectable, scoring twice in the loss.

About Bryan Trottier

Bryan Trottier played 1,279 regular season and 221 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1975-76 and 1993-94 with the New York Islanders and Pittsburgh Penguins. He won six Stanley Cup championships, four with New York and two with Pittsburgh.

Trottier was the Calder Trophy winner in 1975-76 as NHL rookie of the year. Other accolades include an Art Ross Trophy, Hart Trophy and Conn Smythe Trophy. Bryan was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1997.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Bryan Trottier

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Bryan Trottier won the Calder Trophy as NHL Rookie of the Year in which season?

A) 1973-74
B) 1974-75
C) 1975-76
D) 1976-77

2. How many Stanley Cups did Bryan Trottier win during his playing career?

A) 4
B) 6
C) 7
D) 8

3. Trottier won the Hart Trophy as NHL MVP in which season?

A) 1977-78
B) 1978-79
C) 1979-80
D) 1980-81

4. Which superstar winger formed a legendary scoring duo with Trottier on the Islanders?

A) Mike Bossy
B) Clark Gillies
C) Pat LaFontaine
D) Denis Potvin

5. How many career NHL regular season points did Trottier finish with?

A) 1,280
B) 1,425
C) 1,565
D) 1,704

Dick Redmond’s Big Night Overshadows Brother Mickey

On December 5, 1973, the Detroit Olympia hosted a special sibling showdown. Mickey Redmond, in the middle of back-to-back 50-goal seasons with the Detroit Red Wings, faced off against his younger brother Dick and the powerhouse Chicago Blackhawks.

While Mickey was the proven sniper, the night belonged to Dick. The Blackhawks exploded for four first-period goals, and Dick Redmond had a hand in every one of them. He assisted on two goals by Stan Mikita and one by Dennis Hull, while also scoring one of his own with help from Bill White. Incredibly, the first three came in a span of just 1:10, and they represented a shorthanded goal, a power play goal, and one at even strength.

Detroit battled back with goals from Red Berenson and Henry Boucha, but the Blackhawks dominated in an 8-2 win. Mickey, meanwhile, was limited to penalty minutes, picking up three minors in the second period and another in the third. In total, the Redmond brothers combined for the first four penalties of the second frame. Dick even outshot his sniper sibling 8-4, making it a rare night where he got the upper hand.

For the 1973-74 season as a whole, Mickey’s scoring touch was undeniable, finishing with 51 goals to Dick’s 17. But in playmaking, Dick held the edge with 42 assists compared to Mickey’s 26. Though they never played together in the NHL, both had once worn the uniform of the Peterborough Petes in 1966-67.

About Dick Redmond

Between 1969-70 and 1981-82, Dick Redmond played 771 regular season and 66 playoff games in the National Hockey League with the Minnesota North Stars, California Golden Seals, Chicago Blackhawks, St. Louis Blues, Atlanta Flames and Boston Bruins. He was orginally the fifth overall pick at the 1969 NHL Amateur Draft by the North Stars.

About Mickey Redmond

Mickey Redmond played 538 regular season and 14 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1967-68 and 1975-76 with the Montreal Canadiens and Detroit Red Wings. He won two Stanley Cups with the Habs and was 50 goal scorer for the Red Wings in two consecutive seasons.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Dick and Mickey Redmond

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Which team did Dick Redmond spend the majority of his NHL career with?

Detroit Red Wings
Chicago Blackhawks
Boston Bruins
Atlanta Flames

2. Mickey Redmond is best remembered for scoring consecutive 50-goal seasons with which team?

Montreal Canadiens
Detroit Red Wings
Los Angeles Kings
Toronto Maple Leafs

3. In the December 5, 1973 game at Detroit Olympia, how many points did Dick Redmond register?

Two
Three
Four
Five

4. Which Redmond brother became a well-known TV broadcaster after his playing career?

Mickey Redmond
Dick Redmond
Both
Neither

5. Before reaching the NHL, both Redmond brothers played junior hockey for which team?

Oshawa Generals
Peterborough Petes
Kitchener Rangers
London Knights

Steve Shutt’s Hat Trick and Fight vs. Blackhawks (1976-77)

On November 6, 1976, the Montreal Forum played host to one of the most dominant Canadiens teams in NHL history. The 1976-77 Habs crushed the Chicago Blackhawks 11-3, and Steve Shutt was at the center of the action with a memorable mix of goals and grit.

Just 1:14 into the game, Shutt opened the scoring with help from defensemen Serge Savard and Larry Robinson. Minutes later, he found himself in the penalty box after a spirited scrap with Darcy Rota. Neither player was known as a fighter, but it showed the intensity of the night.

Shutt wasn’t done. At 9:51 of the second period, he buried his 15th goal of the season, assisted by Pierre Bouchard and Guy Lafleur, giving the Habs a commanding 5-1 lead. In the third, at 16:07, Shutt completed the hat trick with his 16th of the year, set up by Lafleur and Jacques Lemaire. He was already pacing toward his career-best 60-goal campaign.

The Blackhawks’ goaltending didn’t stand a chance. Starter Tony Esposito gave up four goals on 16 shots before being replaced by Michel Dumas, who surrendered seven on 16 shots in one of his eight total NHL appearances. Meanwhile, Lafleur dazzled with two goals and two assists, while Savard finished an incredible +7.

About Steve Shutt

Steve Shutt played 930 regular season an 99 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1972-73 and 1984-85 with the Montreal Canadiens and Los Angeles Kings. He was a five-time Stanley Cup champion with the Habs. Shutt was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1993.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Steve Shutt

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In which season did Steve Shutt score his career-high 60 goals?

• 1974-75
• 1976-77
• 1978-79
• 1980-81

2. How many Stanley Cups did Steve Shutt win with the Montreal Canadiens?

• 3
• 5
• 6
• 4

3. Which legendary linemate was most often paired with Steve Shutt during his peak years?

• Jacques Lemaire
• Larry Robinson
• Guy Lafleur
• Ken Dryden

4. How many career NHL goals did Steve Shutt finish with?

• 312
• 424
• 389
• 441

5. In what year was Steve Shutt inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?

• 1991
• 1995
• 1993
• 1997

Jari Kurri’s Historic 5-Point Game in the 1990 Stanley Cup Final

On May 18, 1990, Jari Kurri of the Edmonton Oilers delivered one of the most dominant individual performances in Stanley Cup Final history. In Game 2 against the Boston Bruins at the old Boston Garden, Kurri recorded 5 points, becoming the last NHL player to hit that mark in a final series game.

Kurri’s night included a hat trick and two assists in Edmonton’s 7-2 win. He scored the Oilers’ second, third, and final goals while setting up Craig Simpson and Esa Tikkanen in the second period.

Edmonton made the most of their opportunities early, scoring three times on just four shots against Boston starter Andy Moog. Backup Rejean Lemelin fared little better, surrendering four more goals on 18 shots.

The Oilers went on to defeat the Bruins 4-1 in the series, securing their only Stanley Cup championship without Wayne Gretzky. That spring also marked Kurri’s final playoff run with Edmonton before reuniting with Gretzky in Los Angeles two years later.

During the 1989-90 postseason, Kurri tallied 25 points in 22 games, finishing just behind Mark Messier and Craig Simpson (31 points each). Goaltender Bill Ranford earned the Conn Smythe Trophy as playoff MVP, backstopping all 22 games with a 2.53 GAA and one shutout.

About Jari Kurri

Jari Kurri Played 1,251 regular season and 200 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1980-81 and 1997-98 with the Edmonton Oilers, Los Angeles Kings, New York Rangers, Anaheim Might Ducks and Colorado Avalanche. Over the time, he scored 601 goals with a career high 71 in 1984-85. Kurri was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 2001.

NHL Hockey Trivia Jari Kurri

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Jari Kurri was the first Finnish player to reach which major NHL milestone?

500 career goals 1,000 career points 1,500 career points 700 career goals

2. Which NHL team drafted Jari Kurri in 1980?

Los Angeles Kings Edmonton Oilers Colorado Rockies Winnipeg Jets

3. In the 1984–85 season, Kurri scored a career-high how many goals?

68 71 73 78

4. After leaving the Oilers, Kurri later reunited with Wayne Gretzky on which team?

New York Rangers Los Angeles Kings Colorado Avalanche Anaheim Mighty Ducks

5. In what year was Jari Kurri inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?

1999 2000 2001 2003

John McKenzie Fires Up Boston Garden With Hat Trick And Fight (1970)

On December 20, 1970, the Boston Garden crowd was treated to a classic Johnny McKenzie performance. Known for his grit and scoring touch, McKenzie delivered a Gordie Howe Hat Trick Plus in a 7-2 Boston Bruins win over the Minnesota North Stars.

The night before in St. Louis, McKenzie had two goals and an assist in a 7-1 victory over the Blues. He carried that momentum home, scoring his 12th, 13th, and 14th goals of the 1970-71 season against Minnesota. He also set up a goal by Phil Esposito, capping a four-point night.

True to form, McKenzie also dropped the gloves, scrapping with ex-Bruin Barry Gibbs just 25 seconds into the second period. Gilles Gilbert, who later went on to play for Boston, faced 47 shots and stopped 40, including four off McKenzie’s stick. Bobby Orr and Phil Esposito led the barrage with eight shots each.

The 1970-71 campaign proved to be McKenzie’s best NHL season, as he finished with 31 goals and 77 points. The hat trick against Minnesota was the third of his career and the only one not scored against the Detroit Red Wings.

About John McKenzie

John McKenzie played 691 regular season and 69 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1958-59 and 1971-72 with the Chicago Blackhawks, Detroit Red Wings, New York Rangers and Boston Bruins. He won two Stanley Cup championships with the Bruins.

In the WHA, McKenzie played an additional 477 regular season and 33 playoff games between 1972-73 and 1978-79 with the Philadelphia Blazers, Vancouver Blazers, Minnesota Fighting Saints, Cincinnati Stingers and New England Whalers.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Johnny McKenzie

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In which NHL season did Johnny McKenzie score his career-high 31 goals?

• 1968-69
• 1969-70
• 1970-71
• 1971-72

2. Which team did Johnny McKenzie score his famous hat trick and fight performance against on December 20, 1970?

• St. Louis Blues
• Detroit Red Wings
• Minnesota North Stars
• Chicago Blackhawks

3. How many career NHL hat tricks did Johnny McKenzie record?

• 2
• 3
• 4
• 5

4. Johnny McKenzie was part of the Boston Bruins’ Stanley Cup–winning team in which year?

• 1968
• 1970
• 1972
• Both 1970 and 1972

5. Before joining the Bruins, McKenzie played for which NHL team?

• New York Rangers
• Detroit Red Wings
• Chicago Blackhawks
• Philadelphia Flyers

Bill Collins Torches Leafs with Back-to-Back Hat Tricks in 1970

When the Minnesota North Stars reached game 59 of the 1969-70 season, Bill Collins had just 13 goals to his name. That all changed on March 1, 1970, when the Toronto Maple Leafs came to town.

At the Met, Collins exploded for a hat trick, his 14th, 15th, and 16th of the season, all against Leafs netminder Bruce Gamble. Minnesota dominated the night with an 8-0 blowout, outshooting Toronto 40-41. Cesare Maniago was rock-solid, turning away all 41 shots for the shutout. Bill Goldsworthy and J.P. Parise chipped in with two goals and two assists each, but Collins set the tone with his relentless play and seven shots on goal.

Less than a week later, the two teams met again at Maple Leaf Gardens. And once more, Collins found his magic. This time he struck for another three goals, numbers 18, 19, and 20 on the year, with the first two coming shorthanded. Remarkably, he scored on all three of his shots, again at the expense of Bruce Gamble, who was pulled in favor of Marv Edwards after the second period. Minnesota rolled to an 8-3 win as Gump Worsley turned aside 44 of 47 shots.

Though Collins didn’t pick up a single assist in either game, that reflected his style during the 1969-70 campaign: pure goal-scoring. He finished the season with a career-best 29 goals, paired with just nine assists. It was the first of three seasons where he crossed the 20-goal mark, later tallying 21 with the Detroit Red Wings in 1972-73 and 22 with the St. Louis Blues in 1974-75.

About Bill Collins

After several years in the minors, Bill Collins got his NHL start after the Minnesota North Stars drafted him from the New York Rangers organization in the 1967 NHL Expansion Draft. Originally a prospect of the Toronto Maple Leafs, he was traded to the Rangers on February 22, 1964, along with Arnie Brown, Dick Duff, Bob Nevin and Rod Seiling for Andy Bathgate and Don McKenney.

Collins played 768 regular season and 18 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1967-68 and 1977-78 with the North Stars, Montreal Canadiens, Detroit Red Wings, St. Louis Blues, New York Rangers, Philadelphia Flyers and Washington Capitals.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Bill Collins

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Which team did Bill Collins score consecutive hat tricks against in March 1970?

Detroit Red Wings
Toronto Maple Leafs
St. Louis Blues
Boston Bruins

2. Which Toronto goalie did Collins score his goals on during those games?

Johnny Bower
Marv Edwards
Bruce Gamble
Gerry Cheevers

3. How many goals did Bill Collins finish the 1969–70 season with?

21
25
29
33

4. How many of Collins' goals in the second hat trick were scored shorthanded?

0
1
2
3

5. Who recorded the shutout for Minnesota in the 8–0 game (stopping 41 shots)?

Gump Worsley
Cesare Maniago
Tony Esposito
Ken Dryden

Rangers Rookie Bill Fairbairn Steals The Show In 1969 Win Over Bruins

When fans think of the New York Rangers beating the Boston Bruins in 1969, it’s usually the famed GAG Line of Rod Gilbert, Jean Ratelle, and Vic Hadfield that comes to mind. But on November 15, 1969, at the Boston Garden, it wasn’t the stars, it was the rookies and role players who carried the night.

Bill Fairbairn, just breaking into the league, had the game of his life. The rookie scored twice and added two assists for four points, including the dramatic game-winning goal with only eleven seconds left. His linemates, Dave Balon and Walt Tkaczuk, each chipped in three points, combining with Fairbairn for an incredible ten points in New York’s nail-biting 6-5 win.

What made the effort even more impressive was their efficiency, the trio netted five goals on only nine shots against Boston goalie Ed Johnston.

Fairbairn’s hot streak didn’t stop there. After starting the 1969-70 season with no points in his first five games, he went on a tear with 19 points in his next 14 contests. By season’s end, he had 23 goals and 33 assists for 56 points, playing in all 76 Rangers games. His rookie season earned him second place in Calder Trophy voting behind Chicago’s Tony Esposito.

Over the course of his NHL career (1968-69 to 1978-79), Fairbairn suited up in 658 regular season and 54 playoff games with the Rangers, Minnesota North Stars, and St. Louis Blues. He was a reliable scorer, hitting the 20-goal mark four times and peaking at 30 goals in 1972-73 with New York.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Bill Fairbairn

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Which NHL team did Bill Fairbairn debut with in the 1968-69 season?

Minnesota North Stars
New York Rangers
St. Louis Blues
Chicago Blackhawks

2. In his rookie season (1969-70), Fairbairn finished second in Calder Trophy voting behind which player?

Ken Dryden
Tony Esposito
Bobby Clarke
Darryl Sittler

3. What was Bill Fairbairn’s career-high in goals for a single NHL season?

20
25
30
35

4. How many regular season NHL games did Fairbairn play in his career?

412
527
658
701

5. Which of the following teams did Bill Fairbairn not play for in the NHL?

New York Rangers
St. Louis Blues
Minnesota North Stars
Philadelphia Flyers

Bonus Trivia!

NHL Hockey Trivia: The 1969-70 New York Rangers Season

1. Which future Hall of Famer led the Rangers in scoring during the 1969-70 season?

Vic Hadfield
Rod Gilbert
Jean Ratelle
Brad Park

2. Rookie Bill Fairbairn finished second in Calder Trophy voting in 1969-70. Who won the award?

Bobby Clarke
Darryl Sittler
Tony Esposito
Ken Dryden

3. Where did the Rangers finish in the East Division standings in 1969-70?

1st place
2nd place
3rd place
4th place

4. Who was the Rangers’ head coach during the 1969-70 season?

Emile Francis
Red Sullivan
Fred Shero
Al Arbour

5. The Rangers were eliminated in the 1970 playoffs by which team?

Montreal Canadiens
Boston Bruins
Chicago Blackhawks
Detroit Red Wings

Lanny McDonald’s Lone Hat Trick With The Colorado Rockies

On February 6, 1981, Lanny McDonald recorded his only hat trick as a member of the Colorado Rockies in a thrilling 6-4 home win against the Pittsburgh Penguins.

McDonald was no stranger to multi-goal games, he tallied 18 career hat tricks, including eight with the Toronto Maple Leafs (one a four-goal outing) and nine with the Calgary Flames. But during his short stay in Denver, fans only got to witness one such performance.

In the first period, McDonald opened the scoring just 5:22 in, beating Pittsburgh’s Nick Ricci with help from Merlin Malinowski. After the Penguins tied it up, McDonald struck again in the second frame with his 24th of the season, assisted by Paul Gagné and WaltMcKechnie, giving Colorado a 3-2 edge.

His third goal sealed the night, coming unassisted into an empty net with just 41 seconds left in the game. Not only did McDonald complete the hat trick, but he also collected two assists on goals by Lucien DeBlois and Mike Gillis, finishing with a five-point night. He registered five of Colorado’s 23 shots, while Rockies goaltender Al Smith turned aside 30 of 34 Pittsburgh attempts for the win.

McDonald’s path to Denver began with a December 29, 1979 trade that sent him and Joel Quenneville to Colorado in exchange for Pat Hickey and Wilf Paiement. His Rockies tenure spanned 142 games over parts of three seasons before he was dealt to Calgary on November 25, 1981, in a trade that saw Don Lever and Bob MacMillan head to Colorado.

About Lanny McDonald

Lanny McDonald played 1,111 regular season and 117 playoff games in the National Hockey League between 1973-74 and 1988-89 with the Toronto Maple Leafs, Colorado Rockies and Calgary Flames. Originally a fourth overall pick by the Maple Leafs at the 1973 NHL Amateur Draft, McDonald was inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame in 1992.

NHL Hockey Trivia: Lanny McDonald

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. In which year did Lanny McDonald score his only hat trick as a member of the Colorado Rockies?
   1979
   1981
   1983
   
2. Which team did McDonald spend the majority of his NHL career with, including winning a Stanley Cup?
   Toronto Maple Leafs
   Calgary Flames
   Colorado Rockies
   
3. How many career hat tricks did Lanny McDonald record in total?
   12
   18
   22
   
4. What was unique about McDonald’s goal-scoring in the 1982-83 season with Calgary?
   He scored 66 goals, setting a franchise record
   He scored 50 goals in 50 games
   He had more assists than goals for the only time in his career
   
5. In which year was Lanny McDonald inducted into the Hockey Hall of Fame?
   1990
   1992
   1995
   

Bonus Round!

NHL Hockey Trivia: Colorado Rockies

1. In what year did the Colorado Rockies first take the ice in the NHL?
   1974
   1976
   1978
   
2. Before moving to Denver, what was the team’s original NHL identity?
   Kansas City Scouts
   Oakland Seals
   Cleveland Barons
   
3. Who was the goaltender most associated with the Rockies, appearing in over 150 games?
   Ron Low
   Chico Resch
   Michel Plasse
   
4. In 1979-80, who coached the Rockies for one memorable season before becoming an NHL legend elsewhere?
   Scotty Bowman
   Don Cherry
   Herb Brooks
   
5. What became of the Colorado Rockies franchise after the 1981-82 season?
   Folded
   Relocated to New Jersey as the Devils
   Merged with the Quebec Nordiques
   

Pete Laframboise’s Historic 4-Goal Night Lifts Golden Seals to 11-3 Rout

On January 3, 1973, Pete Laframboise etched his name into California Golden Seals history with a jaw-dropping four-goal performance, the first in franchise history. Incredibly, those four tallies made up 12% of his entire NHL career goals.

The game, played at the Oakland-Alameda County Coliseum Arena against the Vancouver Canucks, was tight after two periods with the Seals holding a 5-3 lead. Then came the third period eruption, six unanswered California goals, sealing an 11-3 rout.

Laframboise opened the scoring at 8:21 of the first period, burying his seventh of the season past Bruce Bullock, assisted by Walt McKechnie and Hilliard Graves. His second came on the power play at 14:36 of the second, with helpers from Graves and Stan Weir.

The real fireworks came in the third. Laframboise struck twice in quick succession, both set up by Graves and Weir, pushing the score to 9-3. Only three players in Seals history would ever match the feat of four goals in a game: Ivan Boldirev, Gary Sabourin, and Dennis Maruk. Boldirev also had a huge night in this game with two goals (including the game-winner) and two assists.

Goaltending was a story of contrasts. Bullock stayed between the pipes for Vancouver the entire night, surrendering 11 goals on 44 shots. Gilles Meloche, meanwhile, earned the win for California with 26 saves, picking up an assist on the final goal and even taking a delay of game penalty late in the second period.

About Pete Laframboise

Pete Laframboise’s NHL career spanned 227 regular season games and nine playoff appearances between 1971-72 and 1974-75, skating for the Golden Seals, Washington Capitals, and Pittsburgh Penguins. He also played 17 games for the Edmonton Oilers in the WHA during the 1976-77 season. Drafted in the second round by California in 1970, Laframboise made the leap to the pros after a standout junior career with the Ottawa 67’s.

NHL Hockey Trivia: California Golden Seals

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. What year did the Oakland Seals join the NHL?
   1965
   1967
   1970
2. Before becoming the California Golden Seals, the team was briefly known as:
   Bay Area Seals
   San Jose Seals
   Pacific Seals
3. Which future Conn Smythe Trophy winner played for the Seals before becoming a star with another team?
   Wayne Gretzky
   Reggie Leach
   Guy Lafleur
4. In 1976, the Golden Seals franchise relocated to which city?
   Denver, Colorado
   Cleveland, Ohio
   Minneapolis, Minnesota
5. What were the Golden Seals’ team colors during most of the 1970s?
   Black and Gold
   Red and White
   Green and Gold

Bob Nevin’s Final Goals as a Ranger Eliminate the Maple Leafs in 1971 Playoffs

Bob Nevin’s NHL journey began with the Toronto Maple Leafs, where he played a key role in two Stanley Cup championships before being traded to the New York Rangers in a blockbuster February 22, 1964 deal. Alongside Dick Duff, Bill Collins, Arnie Brown, and Rod Seiling, Nevin was sent to New York in exchange for Don McKenney and Andy Bathgate, missing out on Toronto’s third straight Cup later that spring.

Fast forward to April 15, 1971. Nevin delivered a playoff performance Leafs fans would rather forget. In Game 6 of the quarter-final series, the veteran forward scored both New York goals in a 2-1 overtime victory, single-handedly eliminating his former team. His first came at 12:39 of the second period, beating Jacques Plante with help from Walt Tkaczuk and Vic Hadfield. After Jim McKenny tied it late in the third, Nevin struck again at 9:07 of overtime to clinch the series.

Nevin was unstoppable that series, netting all five of his playoff goals in the six games against Toronto, along with two assists for seven points. However, his scoring touch cooled in the semi-final against Chicago, where he managed just one assist as the Rangers fell in seven games.

Just three weeks later, Nevin was dealt to the Minnesota North Stars for Bobby Rousseau. He spent two seasons in Minnesota before finishing his NHL career with the Los Angeles Kings and wrapping up his major league days with the WHA’s Edmonton Oilers.

Hockey Trivia: Bob Nevin

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our website: World's Best Hockey Trivia

1. Bob Nevin began his NHL career with which team?
   New York Rangers
   Toronto Maple Leafs
   Minnesota North Stars
   Los Angeles Kings
2. In which playoff year did Nevin score both New York goals in game 6 to eliminate the Maple Leafs?
   1967
   1971
   1973
   1975
3. Who was the Maple Leafs goaltender Nevin scored on for the Game 6 overtime winner?
   Jacques Plante
   Johnny Bower
   Bernie Parent
   Eddie Johnston
4. After leaving the Rangers, Nevin was traded to which team?
   Chicago Blackhawks
   St. Louis Blues
   Minnesota North Stars
   Philadelphia Flyers
5. Nevin ended his major league hockey career playing in which league?
   NHL
   WHA
   AHL
   IHL

Esposito, Hull, Howe: The Race to the NHL’s First 100-Point Season

Before 1968-69, no NHL player had ever scored 100 points in a single season. The closest came in the mid-60s: Bobby Hull with 97 points in 1965-66, and Stan Mikita matching the feat the next year. Mikita even won the 1967-68 Art Ross Trophy with just 87 points. But the next season would change NHL history forever.

In 1968-69, not one, but three hockey legends shattered the 100-point barrier for the first time: Phil Esposito, Bobby Hull, and Gordie Howe.

Phil Esposito: The First to 100

On March 2, 1969, Boston Bruins centre Phil Esposito reached the milestone in style. Facing the Pittsburgh Penguins at Boston Garden, Esposito scored his 39th goal of the season just 17 seconds into the third period, assisted by Ken Hodge and Ted Green. That goal marked point number 100.

He wasn’t done, adding a shorthanded goal later in the period, assisted by Hodge and Bobby Orr, on the way to a 4-0 win. Esposito ended the year with 126 points, earning his first of five Art Ross Trophies.

Bobby Hull: The Golden Jet Follows

On March 20, 1969, in the same Boston Garden, Bobby Hull of the Chicago Blackhawks became the second man to hit 100 points. Needing two points going into the game, Hull scored his 54th goal with less than three minutes left, then struck again just 13 seconds later for the magic number.

Hull closed the season with 107 points, finishing second to Esposito in the scoring race.

Gordie Howe: Mr. Hockey Joins the Club

Finally, on March 30, 1969, Gordie Howe entered the Detroit Red Wings last game of the season with 99 points. Against Hull’s Blackhawks, Howe scored his 43rd goal just 33 seconds into the second period for point number 100.

He added another goal and two assists for a four-point night, finishing the season with 103 points, good for third in the Art Ross race.

Quiz: NHL’s First Triple 100-Point Season (1968-69)

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our Hockey Trivia website!

1. Who was the first player in NHL history to reach 100 points in a single season?
   Bobby Hull
   Phil Esposito
   Gordie Howe
   
2. In which month of 1969 did Phil Esposito hit the 100-point milestone?
   January
   March
   February
   
3. How many points did Bobby Hull finish with in the 1968-69 season?
   100
   107
   126
   
4. Gordie Howe reached his 100th point against which team?
   Boston Bruins
   Chicago Blackhawks
   New York Rangers
   
5. How many points did Phil Esposito total in 1968-69?
   107
   103
   126
   

Who Scored 50 First? The Penguins’ Historic 1975-76 Season

In the 1975-76 NHL season, the Pittsburgh Penguins achieved a franchise first. Not one, but two players reached 50 goals. Pierre Larouche and Jean Pronovost both cracked the milestone, with Larouche finishing at 53 goals and Pronovost close behind at 52. But who hit 50 first?

March 24, 1976: Pronovost Makes Penguins History

On a Wednesday night at the Civic Arena (a.k.a. The Igloo), the Penguins faced off against the powerhouse Boston Bruins. With the game tied in the third period, Jean Pronovost scored his 50th goal of the season at the 11:01 mark. The goal came on Gilles Gilbert, assisted by Lowell MacDonald and Syl Apps.

That moment made Pronovost the first Pittsburgh Penguin ever to reach 50 goals in a single season. Larouche also scored in the game, his 45^th, The match ended in a 5-5 tie.

April 3, 1976: Larouche Follows In A Flash

Just over a week later, Pierre Larouche entered a game against the Washington Capitals with 49 goals. He scored number 50 at 11:16 of the second period, assisted by Ron Stackhouse and Rick Kehoe. With eight seconds left in the same period, he added another, goal number 51.

Despite Larouche’s heroics, the Penguins lost 5-4. It was just the Capitals' 11th win of the year.

A Quick Playoff Exit

Although Larouche and Pronovost combined for 105 goals, the Penguins were eliminated in the first round of the playoffs, losing a best-of-three series to the Toronto Maple Leafs. Neither player scored during the series.

Today’s Franchise Benchmark: Lemieux’s 85

While Pronovost was the first to reach 50, and Larouche edged him in total, Mario Lemieux now holds the single-season franchise record with a jaw-dropping 85 goals in 1988-89.

1970's 50 Goal Scorers Quiz

Much more NHL hockey trivia can be found at our Hockey Trivia website!

1. Who was the first NHL player to score 50 goals in a season during the 1970s?
Phil Esposito (1971)
Phil Esposito (1970)
Bobby Hull (1970)
Guy Lafleur (1971)

2. In the 1970s, which NHL player had the most 50-goal seasons?
Marcel Dionne
Mike Bossy
Guy Lafleur
Rick Martin

3. Which of these players did NOT score 50 goals in a season during the 1970s?
Pierre Larouche
Jean Pronovost
Dave Keon
Ken Hodge

4. Which team had two players reach 50 goals in the same 1975-76 season?
Pittsburgh Penguins
Montreal Canadiens
New York Islanders
Buffalo Sabres

5. Who scored 52 goals in the 1974-75 season for the Buffalo Sabres?
Danny Gare
Gilbert Perreault
Rene Robert
Rick Martin

Rick MacLeish’s Lone Penalty Shot Goal Comes Against Billy Smith in 1978

On March 20, 1978, the Philadelphia Flyers hosted the New York Islanders at the Spectrum in a battle for Patrick Division supremacy. The Isles came in with a seven-point edge in the standings, but on this night, Rick MacLeish made a little history.

Just 6:20 into the first period, MacLeish was awarded a penalty shot, something that would turn out to be the only one of his 846-game NHL career. The Cannington Kid made it count, slipping it past the always-fiery Billy Smith to give the Flyers a 1-0 lead. Despite firing 11 shots in the game, nearly 30% of the team’s total, this would be MacLeish’s only goal of the night and his 31st of the season. It also ended up being his final regular season goal of 1977-78.

The Flyers would go on to win the game 4-2, with Mel Bridgman, Reg Leach, and Bill Barber adding goals of their own. Barber’s 36th of the campaign proved to be the game-winner. Between the pipes, BernieParent was solid, turning away 26 shots to seal the victory.

MacLeish’s career spanned from 1970-71 to 1983-84, playing for the Flyers, Hartford Whalers, Pittsburgh Penguins, and Detroit Red Wings. He racked up 349 regular season goals and another 54 in the playoffs. Notably, in 1972-73, he became the first player in Flyers history to notch 50 goals in a single season.

Rick MacLeish vs. Billy Smith – Trivia Quiz

For much more hockey trivia, check out our Hockey Trivia Website.

1. What date did Rick MacLeish score his only career penalty shot goal?
   March 10, 1978
   March 20, 1978
   March 25, 1978
   


2. Who was the goaltender Rick MacLeish scored on during the penalty shot?
   Bernie Parent
   Billy Smith
   Rogie Vachon
   


3. How many shots on goal did MacLeish register in the game?
   7
   11
   5
   


4. Who scored the game-winning goal for the Flyers in the 4–2 win?
   Rick MacLeish
   Mel Bridgman
   Bill Barber
   


5. How many career regular-season goals did Rick MacLeish score?
   349
   402
   296